Integrative Assessment Methodologies for Sustainable Building Envelope Systems in Climate Adaptation

The built environment, particularly its envelope systems, accounts for 40% of electricity consumption and 40% of carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S. The focus of this research is to address key challenges in building technology, including decarbonization, climate resilience, circular economy, and balanced environmental stewardship by developing and integrating innovative assessment methodologies for sustainable building envelope systems. Decarbonization efforts target reductions in greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and reducing non-combustion emissions. This research emphasizes energy efficiency through advancements in continuous insulation (CI) systems, which improve thermal performance, reduce air and water leakage, and optimize HVAC systems in buildings. The thermal performance of CI systems along with the impact of thermal bridging in rainscreen systems across various climate conditions, are studied using experimental and computational analyses, ensuring enhanced building thermal performance and energy efficiency. Climate resilience is critical for built environment to adapt to extreme climate events like heatwaves and floods. This research examines the hygrothermal performance of CI wall systems under harsh cold conditions, addressing thermal and moisture issues. The findings provide strategies for durable wall designs, which are crucial for occupant health and cost-effective maintenance. Similarly, the circular economy principles guide the investigation into material degradation and its impact on hygrothermal performance. By analyzing the aging effects on wall systems, the study identifies strategies to prolong material lifespan, optimize maintenance, and ensure long-term energy efficiency. Balanced environmental stewardship is studied in this research, focusing on overburdened communities facing disproportionate climate risks. The study explores the window contribution air leakage in residential buildings, advocating for improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency. This comprehensive study not only advances sustainable building technologies but also proposes critical updates to simulation tools, emphasizing the inclusion of thermal, moisture, and aging factors in design considerations. By aligning with decarbonization, resilience, and environmental goals, the research paves the way for integrating innovative methodology assessments building envelope designs that address pressing hygrothermal, aging, and environmental challenges.